According to the industry trade papers, TV's second longest running primetime animated program (after only "The Simpsons") will reach its end after 13 seasons and nearly 260 episodes.

FOX has, of course, cancelled "King of the Hill" in the past, only to give the series a last-second reprieve. In addition, the network has reliable held "King of the Hill" in extended renewal limbo before last-second pick-ups. There's a long history, in fact, of FOX animated cancellations leading to eventual resurrections in some form or another, think "Family Guy" or "Futurama."

For now, the trades are reporting that the show's staff was notified on Thursday that this latest batch of episodes will be the show's last.

But what does that actually mean? "King of the Hill" is currently airing episodes from its 12th production cycle. In April, the network ordered a 13-episode 13th season for a spring 2009 premiere. That means it's likely that "King of the Hill" could run for nearly a year after its cancellation.

While the network continues to struggle with live-action comedy, FOX has two more animated offerings set for midseason premieres, with " The Cleveland Show" and "Sit Down, Shut Up."

Created by Mike Judge and Greg Daniels, "King of the Hill" premiered in January 1997. The series won a 1999 Emmy for outstanding animated program, while Pamela Adlon won a voice-over Emmy in 2002.